Namibian and Finnish Universities Unite for Sustainability Education

What does it take to turn sustainability challenges into practical solutions? For a group of NUST postgraduate students, the answer lay in weeks of collaboration, critical thinking and innovation through the Solutions.Now course. Last week, their efforts culminated in a certificate handover ceremony recognising the successful completion of a programme designed to equip participants with the skills to tackle real-world sustainability challenges faced by industry. 

Delivered in partnership with the University of Namibia (UNAM); Tampere University of Applied Sciences; Turku University of Applied Sciences; and the University of Turku, the course brought together students from Namibia and Finland to work in multidisciplinary teams. Participants were tasked with addressing sustainability challenges presented by Finnish organisations, before presenting their proposed solutions to the respective partners. 

Tackling Global Sustainability Challenges 

The programme, which ran from 10 March to 12 May 2026, explored issues such as climate change, biodiversity conservation, sustainable resource use and the circular bio-economy, and sought to transform waste into valuable resources and reduce pressure on the environment. 

Throughout the course, students worked in teams to develop competencies in creativity, initiative, systems thinking, interpersonal skills, and strategic thinking. These skills were applied to real-world sustainability challenges, requiring participants to identify problems, collaborate across disciplines and cultures, and develop practical solutions for industry partners. 

Delivering remarks during the handover ceremony, Prof Teresia Kaulihowa, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Teaching, Learning and Technology, said the certificates symbolised the students’ commitment to becoming innovators, problem-solvers and future leaders capable of developing sustainable solutions to complex global challenges.

Student Reflections and Skills Development 

During the certificate ceremony, student participants Veruschka Dumeni, Takudzwa Ray Shenje and Uaronda Hoveka reflected on their experiences, noting that working with peers from different countries, cultures and academic disciplines were among the most rewarding aspects of the programme. They also highlighted the valuable soft skills gained through the course, including communication, collaboration, adaptability, and time management. 

The milestone reflects NUST's continued commitment to international collaboration while equipping students with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute to a more sustainable future.